A Complete Guide to Weight Loss and Type 2 Diabetes Management

Wegovy is gaining attention as a revolutionary option for weight loss and type 2 diabetes management. Developed by Novo Nordisk, this once-weekly injectable containing semaglutide offers hope for individuals struggling with obesity and related health concerns. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Wegovy — from how it works, its benefits, how to get it in Ireland, and more.

What Is Wegovy?

Wegovy is a prescription-only injectable medication containing semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It is approved for:

• Adults with obesity (BMI ≥30)
• Adults who are overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related health condition, like hypertension or Type 2 Diabetes

The treatment is available in a 2.4mg prefilled pen and is typically administered once a week.

How Wegovy Works

Wegovy mimics the action of a natural hormone called GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1). This hormone is released in the intestine after meals and plays a vital role in:

• Reducing appetite
• Slowing digestion
• Increasing feelings of fullness
• Regulating insulin secretion

By activating GLP-1 receptors, Wegovy Ireland helps people eat less and feel full longer. This leads to gradual, sustainable weight loss when combined with diet and exercise.

Proven Weight Loss Results

Clinical studies have shown that patients using Wegovy lost an average of 15%–20% of their total body weight over 68 weeks. This is significantly higher than what is typically achieved with lifestyle changes alone or with other semaglutide-based medications like Ozempic or Rybelsus.

According to The New England Journal of Medicine, Wegovy outperformed all existing anti-obesity medications in terms of efficacy.

Wegovy for Type 2 Diabetes

In addition to promoting weight loss, Wegovy can also help manage Type 2 Diabetes. It improves blood glucose control by enhancing insulin secretion and reducing glucagon release. For individuals with diabetes, this dual benefit is incredibly valuable.

However, Wegovy is not licensed for diabetes treatment alone in all jurisdictions. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalised guidance.

Wegovy Ireland: Availability and Access

In Ireland, Wegovy is available only via prescription. You must consult a licensed doctor who will determine if you’re eligible based on your BMI and medical history.

As of 2025, the medication is available at select pharmacies and online healthcare providers in Ireland. For more information on medical eligibility and guidelines, visit Health Products Regulatory Authority Ireland.

Is Wegovy Covered by Insurance in Ireland?

At this time, Wegovy is not covered by the HSE (Health Service Executive). Private health insurance may reimburse part of the cost, depending on the provider. It is advisable to check with your insurer for coverage options.

How to Use Wegovy

Wegovy comes in a prefilled KwikPen designed for once-weekly subcutaneous injection. Common injection sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Instructions for Use:

1. Remove the pen cap.
2. Attach a new disposable needle.
3. Set the dose to 2.4mg or as prescribed.
4. Inject into the skin.
5. Dispose of the needle safely.

Patients should rotate injection sites and never inject into muscles or veins.

Side Effects and Precautions

Like any medication, Wegovy can cause side effects. Common ones include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Headache

Less common but serious side effects may include pancreatitis, kidney problems, or thyroid tumours. Always review the patient leaflet and consult your doctor if symptoms persist.

Eye-Related Side Effects

It’s important to note that semaglutide-based medications like Wegovy and Ozempic may cause vision changes or eye problems in some patients. These can include:

• Blurred vision or blurry vision
• Dry eyes
• Eye floaters
• Increased risk of diabetic retinopathy progression

While Ozempic vision loss is rare, patients with diabetes should be aware of the potential for adverse ocular events. Ozempic eye side effects are typically temporary, but in some cases, they may indicate more serious conditions like macular edema or worsening of existing diabetic eye disease.

If you experience any vision changes with Ozempic or Wegovy, it’s crucial to consult an ophthalmologist or retina specialist promptly. Regular eye exams are recommended for all patients using semaglutide, especially those with a history of eye problems or diabetes.

In rare cases, semaglutide use has been associated with more severe conditions such as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), which can lead to blindness. While the direct link is not fully established, patients should be aware of this potential risk. NAION is a condition that affects blood flow to the optic nerve and can cause sudden vision loss.

Some patients have reported changes in lens shape, which may contribute to temporary vision changes. These alterations are usually reversible once the medication is discontinued or the body adjusts to the treatment.

It’s also worth noting that in extremely rare cases, patients may experience an eye stroke, which is a blockage of blood flow to the eye that can lead to sudden vision loss. While the connection between semaglutide and eye strokes is not definitively proven, it’s an important consideration for patients with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors.

Learn more about the NHS Semaglutide guidance.

Who Should Not Use Wegovy?

Wegovy is not suitable for:

• Individuals with a history of medullary thyroid cancer
• People with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women

A full health assessment is required before starting treatment.

Wegovy Ireland: Where to Buy

If you’re wondering where to buy Wegovy in Ireland, options include:

• Private weight loss clinics
• Registered pharmacies
• Licensed online providers

Only buy Wegovy from reputable sources with a valid prescription. Beware of counterfeit products or unlicensed sellers.

Tips for Maximising Weight Loss with Wegovy

Here are five science-backed ways to boost your results:

1. Follow a Calorie-Controlled Diet

Wegovy works best when combined with nutritional changes. Focus on whole foods, reduce sugar intake, and avoid processed meals.

2. Stay Physically Active

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Walking, swimming, or light strength training can help increase metabolism.

3. Track Your Progress

Use a health journal or app to track your weight, food intake, and exercise. This helps stay accountable and recognise patterns.

4. Prioritise Sleep

Poor sleep is linked to increased hunger and weight gain. Ensure you get 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night.

5. Stay Hydrated

Water supports digestion and can curb hunger. Aim for at least 2 litres of water daily. Proper hydration may also help mitigate some side effects like dry eyes and reduce the risk of dehydration, which can exacerbate certain eye-related issues.

Comparing Wegovy with Ozempic and Saxenda

Wegovy, Ozempic, and Saxenda all use GLP-1 receptor agonists. But Wegovy contains a higher dose of semaglutide (2.4mg) and is specifically approved for weight loss.

• Ozempic: Primarily for blood sugar control in diabetes (1mg max dose). Some patients report Ozempic blurry vision as a side effect, which is typically temporary. Ozempic and eye problems have been reported, with some users experiencing Ozempic eye side effects such as changes in Ozempic eyesight.
• Saxenda: Contains Liraglutide, another GLP-1 agonist used for weight loss, but less potent than Wegovy.

For a deeper comparison, see Drugs.com Wegovy vs Ozempic.

Understanding Ozempic and Vision Changes

Many patients wonder, “How does Ozempic affect vision?” While Ozempic vision changes are generally mild and temporary, it’s essential to be aware of potential issues. Ozempic side effects eyes can include:

• Blurred vision: This is often a temporary side effect that may resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. However, persistent blurred vision should be evaluated by an eye care professional.
• Dry eyes: Some patients report does Ozempic cause dry eyes as a concern. Staying hydrated can help alleviate this symptom. In some cases, artificial tears may be recommended.
• Eye floaters: Ozempic and eye floaters have been reported by some users, though the connection is not fully understood. If you notice a sudden increase in floaters, especially accompanied by flashes of light, seek immediate medical attention.

It’s important to note that semaglutide blurry vision is not unique to Ozempic and can occur with other GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy. If you experience persistent Ozempic eye problems, consult your healthcare provider immediately.

Long-term Vision Considerations

While most Ozempic vision changes are temporary, there are some long-term considerations:

• Diabetic retinopathy: Patients with diabetes should be monitored closely, as rapid blood sugar improvements can sometimes worsen existing retinopathy. Regular retinal screenings are crucial for early detection and management of diabetic retinopathy progression.
• Ozempic retinopathy: This term is sometimes used to describe vision changes associated with the medication, though it’s not an official medical diagnosis. It emphasizes the importance of ongoing eye health monitoring for patients using semaglutide-based medications.
• Ozempic eye pressure: Some patients report changes in intraocular pressure, which should be monitored by an eye care professional. Elevated eye pressure can potentially lead to glaucoma if left unchecked.

The question “Can Ozempic cause blindness?” is a serious concern. While extremely rare, severe vision loss has been reported in some cases. However, it’s crucial to note that a direct causal relationship has not been established, and the benefits of the medication often outweigh the risks for most patients. The risk of blindness is typically associated with the progression of underlying conditions like diabetic retinopathy rather than a direct effect of the medication.

Managing Eye-Related Side Effects

If you’re experiencing Wegovy eye side effects or Ozempic eyes issues, here are some steps to take:

1. Don’t panic: Many vision changes are temporary. Ask yourself, “Does blurred vision from Ozempic go away?” In many cases, it does.
2. Stay hydrated: This can help with dry eyes and overall eye health. Proper hydration is crucial in preventing dehydration, which can exacerbate eye-related side effects.
3. Regular eye exams: Schedule check-ups with an ophthalmologist, especially if you have diabetes. These exams can detect early signs of diabetic retinopathy or other eye conditions.
4. Report changes: Inform your healthcare provider about any persistent vision issues, including changes in lens shape or sudden vision loss that could indicate an eye stroke.
5. Be patient: Often, the blurry vision go away as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.

Remember, while semaglutide eye side effects can occur, they are generally manageable and should be weighed against the significant benefits of weight loss and improved blood sugar control.

Patient Success Stories

Thousands of people in Ireland have seen transformative results using Wegovy. Patients report improved self-confidence, increased energy levels, and long-term health improvements.

Future of Wegovy in Ireland

With obesity rates on the rise, Wegovy Ireland represents a turning point in public health. More healthcare professionals are integrating it into weight loss programs, and further developments are expected to improve accessibility.

Clinical trials are also exploring Wegovy’s benefits in heart disease prevention and non-diabetic populations, which may lead to expanded usage. Researchers are also investigating the long-term effects on eye health and the potential impact on blood vessels in the retina, particularly in relation to diabetic retinopathy and the risk of eye stroke.

Final Thoughts: Is Wegovy Right for You?

Wegovy is a groundbreaking solution for weight management and Type 2 Diabetes support. Its proven results, ease of use, and weekly dosing make it an attractive option for those who qualify.

However, it’s not a quick fix. The best outcomes are seen in individuals who combine medication with lifestyle changes and ongoing medical support. It’s crucial to discuss potential side effects, including vision changes and the risk of diabetic retinopathy progression, with your healthcare provider. Be sure to mention any history of eye problems or concerns about potential vision loss or blindness.

Quick Summary:

• Wegovy Ireland is a prescription weight loss injectable with semaglutide.
• It promotes 15–20% weight loss in clinical studies.
• It must be combined with diet and exercise.
• Available in Ireland through licensed professionals.
• Always consult a doctor before starting and monitor for potential side effects, including eye problems like blurred vision, changes in lens shape, and in rare cases, more serious conditions like NAION or eye stroke.
• Stay vigilant about diabetic retinopathy progression, especially if you have a history of diabetes.
• Maintain proper hydration to help mitigate some eye-related side effects and reduce the risk of dehydration.

Learn More

For comprehensive clinical resources, visit the European Medicines Agency – Wegovy